January Birthstones

Discover The World Of January Birthstones

Garnets are the Traditional and Modern birthstone for people born during the
month of January.
Rose Quartz as well as many other
Red Gemstones are considered the Alternative birthstone by Gem Dealers,
Jewelry Designers, and Jewelry Manufacturers.

Garnet derives from the Latin for grain or seed; "granatus", and it was so
called due to the striking deep red of the gem being so very close to that found
in the seeds of pomegranates. However, with a Mohs scale hardness of 6. 5 to 7.
5; biting down a Garnet will not be quite the same sensation as you get from the
fruit's seed!
However, many are surprised that it can also be found in colors other than red;
and some exquisite gems are available in greens, oranges, pinks and violets.
These changes in color are caused by the mineral content within the gem; these
are rarer still than the already elusive red Garnet.

There are a myriad of legends, myths and folklore that surround the Garnet;
crossing many cultures and eras. In Biblical legend for example, it is suggested
that Noah hung a Garnet on his Ark, in order he could light his way through the
storms.
Possibly due to this, and other stories in lore, the gift of a Garnet is often
given to speed home safely a loved one, who is undertaking a journey. Because of
its deep red color, it is also highly symbolic of love and desire; and is often
given to January born loved ones from their partner.
Records show that it has been mined for at least two and a half thousand years,
though not always for its delicate nature; often being used as a tool such is
its hardness.
Garnets are found in many places across the globe including; Africa, India and the United
States of America.

The other of the January birthstones is the beautiful Rose Quartz which, as the
name suggests, ranges from a delicate pale pink, to types which deepen up to the
hue of a red rose. The colors of the gem are caused by trace amounts of titanium
and iron, and in some cases manganese.
Often, the quality of Rose Quartz is thought by many to make inadequate gems,
and certainly can be cloudy. But there are exceptional pieces found and they are
often carved into wonderful hearts; making for a great gift for loved ones.

Despite not being widely popular, it is reputed to be one of the most powerful
semi precious stones in the world. It is said to have many healing powers, with
the ability to help bring calm, and balance emotions at times of stress, anxiety
and even guilt.
Whilst
Rose Quartz is found across the world, from Asia to Europe and on to
Northern America; it is mostly mined in Brazil these days. Brazil has also long
been the producer of the finest examples, and, in the right setting, can make a
wonderful alternative when looking for January birthstones.

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John S Brana features handmade beaded and metal jewelry using reclaimed metals and ethically sourced gemstones from US manufacturers and suppliers. If you are interested in a piece of jewelry that is currently Out of Stock, please give us a call or Contact Us to see when that design will be back In Stock. Most designs, with the exception of One-of-a-Kind Jewelry, can be handmade within 5 to 7 business days.